In a dramatic turn of events, Birmingham Phoenix claimed their maiden victory in The Hundred 2026 women's competition, defeating Welsh Fire with just one ball to spare. Investor Jude Bellingham was in attendance as the Phoenix, previously bottom of the table, bounced back from their sluggish start. Welsh Fire batted first, setting a target of 144 from 100 balls, thanks in part to Georgia Voll's 78 off 55 deliveries.
However, the combined efforts of Elysse Perry and Alice Capsey, who scored 68no and 51 respectively, propelled the Phoenix to their first win. The match went down to the wire, with the Phoenix requiring 10 runs to win from the last three balls.
Perry's six over deep midwicket and subsequent four through point sealed the deal. Speaking to Sky Sports, Perry expressed her delight at the win, citing the team's ability to restrict Welsh Fire's bowling and then timing their own innings to perfection.
The Phoenix now sit fifth in The Hundred table, while Welsh Fire drop to seventh. Meanwhile, Southern Brave extended their lead at the top of the table, making it five wins from five with a five-wicket victory over London Spirit at Lord's. The table-toppers showcased their attack, bowling with precision and variation to stifle the Spirit's batting lineup.
Brave skipper Sophie Molineux led the charge with outstanding figures of 3-7 from her 20 balls, while Maia Bouchier top-scored with 46 from 38 as the Brave stuttered across the line, losing Bouchier and Molineux with one run required.